Team IMPACT’s Game Day Gala to Induct Mansfield Child into the Providence Bruins

On Oct. 4, 2012, Team IMPACT will introduce its inaugural signature fundraising event: Game Day Gala.

On Thursday, Kevin, a 7 year old from Mansfield, MA, will be drafted onto the Providence College men’s hockey team and become a Friar.

In September of 2009, Kevin was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common form of leukemia found in children.

After being diagnosed, Kevin spent two months in the hospital battling a number of different illnesses including two bouts of pancreatitis and having his vocal chords paralyzed for four months. As a result of these setbacks, he couldn’t walk, talk or drink anything and lost over 10 pounds in 10 days.

Fortunately after his two month stay, Kevin was able to go home and begin his out-patient treatment plan which required regular tips to the clinic for chemotherapy and steroids alongside a series of tests and antibiotics. Thankfully Kevin now has a good prognosis and can now focus on transitioning away from treatment and back into his routine.

At this charitable fete, Team IMPACT will celebrate with its cherished benefactors by hosting the ultimate upscale tailgating and sporting event experience.

The evening’s roster includes event co-chairs – and Team IMPACT founding members – Jay Calnan (Chief Executive Officer, J. Calnan & Associates) and Dan Kraft (Executive Vice President, The Kraft Group) who will join forces with ESPN’s popular football reporter, Wendi Nix, in this unforgettable night-with-a-cause that benefits the organization’s mission to pair children who are facing adverse health issues with vibrant, team-based collegiate support networks.

At this event, Team IMPACT hopes to continue to raise awareness while establishing a sense of community by encouraging a wide range of team-based organizations to open up their ranks and extend their laughter, strength and support for children in the New England area.

“The team behind Team IMPACT is honored and inspired to continue and expand the long standing tradition of athletes paying tribute to something that is far greater than themselves,” says Calnan and Kraft. “The ability to come together, serve the community and support each and every member of a team through any adversities is crucial…both on and off the field.”

Kevin’s favorite number is 17, his favorite food is shrimp and he likes the cartoon character Tom from “Tom & Jerry.” He is quite the movie buff and lists “Indiana Jones,” “Star Wars,” “Tron,” and the “Pirates of the Caribbean” trilogy among his favorites. His favorite TV show is “Deadliest Catch” and his favorite athletes are Milan Lucic & Rob Gronkowski.

At the Game Day Gala, supporters will relive their fond “Homecoming” memories in a room bedecked with sports jerseys from Team IMPACT’s participating schools and special guest appearances by their respective spirited mascots. To kickoff the ceremony in true game day fashion, a Team IMPACT participant will sing the National Anthem. As inspiring and uplifting visuals play of the wonderful children the organization rallies for, guests will indulge in gourmet tailgate-inspired treats and sips as well as a sit-down dinner. The Game Day Gala will also feature unparalleled live and silent auctions. 

The first annual Game Day Gala takes place on Thursday, Oct. 4, at The Westin Boston Waterfront located at 425 Summer Street in Boston. A cocktail reception will begin at 6:30 p.m. with the main event starting at 7:30 p.m. To reserve tickets ($500 per person) or a table ($2,500 - $5,000), please visit: www.goteamimpact.org. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jodi LeBeau at jlebeau@goteamimpact.org or 617.801.0220.

Team IMPACT is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity registered in the state of Massachusetts.  Team IMPACT is exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.  All donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.